Yakima, Washington

The "Palm Springs of Washington," Yakima enjoys over 300 days of sunshine and sits at the heart of one of the most productive agricultural regions in the world. The Yakima Valley produces 77% of America's hops for beer, along with vast quantities of apples, cherries, and wine grapes from over 120 wineries.

Founded 1884 | Population 96,000 | Peak 96,000 (2024) | County Yakima County

Top 10 Most Important Events for Yakima, Washington

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1884 Incorporated: Yakima was incorporated, growing rapidly after the Northern Pacific Railroad arrived.

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1886 City Moves: The entire town moved four miles north to meet the Northern Pacific Railroad's chosen route — residents literally moved their buildings.

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1933 Irrigation Boom: Federal irrigation projects transformed the arid valley into one of the most productive agricultural regions in America.

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1980 Mount St. Helens Ash: The eruption of Mount St. Helens deposited volcanic ash across Yakima, darkening skies and disrupting life.

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2010 Wine Country Growth: The Yakima Valley AVA grew to over 120 wineries, establishing the region as a premier Washington wine destination.

Complete Historical Timeline

1884 Government

Incorporated

1886 Culture

City Moves

1933 Industry

Irrigation Boom

1980 Disaster

Mount St. Helens Ash

2010 Culture

Wine Country Growth

Famous People from Yakima, Washington

Robert Lucas

Economist · Born Sep 15, 1937 · Died May 15, 2023 (age 85)

Kyle MacLachlan

Actor, Stage Actor · Born Feb 22, 1959 · Age 67

Jim Rohn

Writer, Entrepreneur · Born Sep 17, 1930 · Died Dec 5, 2009 (age 79)

Phil Mahre

Alpine Skier, Racing Automobile Driver · Born May 10, 1957 · Age 68

Sam Kinison

Actor, Preacher · Born Dec 8, 1953 · Died Apr 10, 1992 (age 38)

Yakima, Washington

Top 10 Most Important Events for Yakima, Washington

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Complete Historical Timeline

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Famous People from Yakima, Washington

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